Big tree smashes Olango home, none hurt

CEBU, Philippines - A house was destroyed by a falling tree after a hard rainy night Thursday dawn in Barangay Pangan-an in Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City.

Roberto Medalla, 48, the owner of the house told The FREEMAN that while his family were sleeping inside the room, the "kulis" tree fell down hitting their concrete walls and their roof.

The tree was situated at the back portion on the left side of their house with few small houses surrounding it.

Gina Medalla, 40, wife of Roberto said while crying that their galvanized iron roof was just changed only to be smashed by a big old tree.

They are temporarily living with their relatives who also reside in the barangay. She however said none of her family was hurt.

Roberto believed that they were hit by an "alimpus" or tornado the night when it rained very hard. He said he also saw a few flashes of lightning.

Virgilio Casiao, the barangay captain, said the island is sometimes hit by tornadoes.

They now need a chainsaw to cut and remove the tree that caused damage to their house.

The married couple asked assistance from the barangay officials and as well as from Lapu-Lapu City mayor.  (FREEMAN)